Two days before Mobile World Congress begins, CNET takes a look at how Barcelona prepares for the massive show.
Kent German
Kent was a senior managing editor at CNET News. A veteran of CNET since 2003, he reviewed the first iPhone and worked in both the London and San Francisco offices. When not working, he's planning his next vacation, walking his dog or watching planes land at the airport (yes, really).
The Mobile World Congress takes place at the Fira Barcelona, near the site of the 1992 Olympics.
2 of 12Kent German/CNET
A spectacular setting
The Fira is adjacent to the Placa D'Espanya, which is one of the city's main intersections. Venetian towers mark the entrance to the Fira complex.
3 of 12Kent German/CNET
What will Microsoft bring?
The Microsoft press conference on Monday will be held at a hotel across Placa D'Espanya. There we expect to get our first glimpse of Windows Mobile 7.
4 of 12Kent German/CNET
An important spot
Hall 8 is one of the largest halls at the Fira Complex. During the show, it will be home to the stands of most handset makers like Samsung, Motorola, and Sony Ericsson.
From the sign at the top, we know that Samsung is unpacking something.
5 of 12Kent German/CNET
Inside the hall
Research In Motion's huge booth is just inside one of the main entrances. In the distance, the Samsung booth takes Nokia's usual spot.
In a change from previous years, Nokia has chosen not to host a booth on the show floor. The company will hold a press conference on Monday but is not expected to announce new phones.
6 of 12Kent German/CNET
Lots to do
Just two days till the start of the show there remains much work to be done.
7 of 12Kent German/CNET
There's T-Mobile
T-Mobile's booth occupies its own building next to a reflecting pool.
8 of 12Kent German/CNET
LG goes modern
LG is showing products in the Mies van der Rohe Pavilion where the famed modern architect developed the now widely used Barcelona chair.
9 of 12Kent German/CNET
A handful from HTC
HTC is expected to introduce a few new phones at Mobile World Congress, making it one of the most active exhibitors.
10 of 12Kent German/CNET
In the distance
Above the show grounds looms the National Museum of Catalan Art on the slopes of Montjuic.
11 of 12Kent German/CNET
No small patatas
Looking back toward the Placa d'Espanya shows the huge expanse of Mobile World Congress and the Fira.
12 of 12Kent German/CNET
Around town
Though its ads aren't as numerous as in past years in Barcelona, Samsung is heavily touting its Omnia II.
